Anhydrous Boron Timed Delay Plug for Well Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing well tool delay mechanisms are complex, unreliable, and costly, making it difficult to effectively delay well tool operation until appropriate positioning or favorable conditions are met.
Innovation Solution
An anhydrous boron-based timed delay plug is used, which prevents fluid communication through a passageway for a predetermined period by hydrating when exposed to an aqueous fluid, allowing for controlled and reliable delay in well tool operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional delay mechanisms are used, then well tool operation can be delayed, but the mechanisms are complex, unreliable, and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the delay mechanism from mechanical complexity to simple chemical reaction kinetics. By using anhydrous boron compounds that react with water at controlled rates, the delay time is determined by chemical parameters (reaction rate, contact surface area, fluid flow rate) rather than mechanical complexity, achieving high reliability with minimal device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical delay mechanisms (such as timed valves, mechanical timers, or complex sequencing devices) with a chemical reaction-based system. The anhydrous boron compound undergoes hydrolysis when exposed to aqueous fluid, and this chemical transformation naturally provides the delay function without requiring any moving parts or mechanical timing components
2Reliability
If traditional delay mechanisms are used, then well tool operation can be delayed, but they are expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a disposable anhydrous boron compound plug that is inexpensive to manufacture and consume. The plug is inserted into the well tool, performs its delay function through chemical reaction with formation water, and is then discarded after use. This eliminates the need for expensive, complex, reusable mechanical delay mechanisms while providing reliable timing functionality at low cost
3Duration of action of moving object
If a plug is used to prevent fluid communication, then well tool operation can be delayed, but clogging may occur during installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the plug material properties position-dependent. The anhydrous boron compound is formulated to be free-flowing and non-clogging during installation (when dry or in powder form), but transforms into a reaction-active state only after exposure to formation water. This local differentiation of material properties allows easy installation without clogging concerns while maintaining effective delay functionality
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The anhydrous boron-based plug provides a reliable and cost-effective means to delay well tool operation, minimizing clogging during installation and allowing for pressure application without the need for additional plugs, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing expenses.
Implementation Method 1
an anhydrous boron-based timed delay plug is provided which brings improvements to the art of delaying well tool operation... in which a well tool is operated a certain time after an anhydrous boron compound is exposed to an aqueous fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A well tool for use with a subterranean well can include an elongated passageway and a plug which prevents fluid communication through the passageway for a predetermined period of time. The plug can including an anhydrous boron compound, whereby the predetermined period of time is determined by a length of the anhydrous boron compound. A method of operating a well tool in conjunction with a subterranean well can include exposing an anhydrous boron compound to an aqueous fluid, with the anhydrous boron compound being included in a plug which prevents fluid communication through a passageway of the well tool. The well tool can be operated in response to fluid communication being permitted through the passageway a predetermined period of time after the exposing step.